DWU Hosts Basic Ultrasound Training Workshop
The Department of Medicine at Divine Word University, Madang Campus, successfully conducted a Basic Ultrasonographic Skills Workshop for DWU medical alumni with support from the Old Dart Foundation (ODF).
The workshop provided participants with essential diagnostic imaging skills through a combination of theoretical learning and practical training in ultrasound applications, including abdominal, urinary, breast, thyroid, obstetric, and gynaecological assessments.
Participants gained hands-on experience scanning real patients and using the advanced SonoSim virtual ultrasound simulation platform, funded through the support of the Government of Poland. The simulator enhanced learning through realistic clinical scenarios, helping participants strengthen their diagnostic skills.
Professor Dr. Jerzy Kuzma, Head of the DWU Department of Medicine, highlighted the growing importance of ultrasound in modern healthcare, stating, "ultrasonography has become an essential clinical skill for every modern doctor. Point-of-care ultrasound is transforming patient care by enabling faster, more accurate bedside diagnosis, making it a core competency for 21st-century medical practice. At the DWU Department of Medicine, we are committed to preparing our students for this evolving healthcare environment.
We have invested in a state-of-the-art virtual ultrasound training system and have recently integrated basic ultrasonographic skills into the MBBS curriculum, ensuring that our current students graduate with this important competency."
The workshop also included supervised ultrasound assessments of pregnant mothers, providing valuable training in maternal and antenatal care while reinforcing the role of early ultrasound in detecting pregnancy-related complications.
The initiative was made possible through ODF, which annually supports 200 DWU health science students through scholarships. Participants reported increased confidence in using ultrasound for diagnosis and clinical decision-making, enabling them to improve patient care in their respective healthcare settings.
The Department of Medicine congratulates all participating ODF-supported DWU medical alumni on successfully completing the workshop and acknowledges the valuable support of ODF and the Government of Poland in advancing medical education and healthcare capacity in Papua New Guinea.
By investing in practical medical training and strengthening diagnostic skills among healthcare professionals, Divine Word University continues to play a vital role in improving healthcare delivery and outcomes throughout the country.
